“And when they had done this, they enclosed a great shoal of fish; and as their nets were breaking, they beckoned to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats so that they began to sink.”
(Luke 5:36-7)  

 Luke 5:1-11

Imagine the scene. After a night of empty nets and bitterness, a morning of listening to the preaching of Jesus. Begrudgingly, listening to Jesus’ invitation to put out into the deep, the fishermen have made this astonishing catch!

Imagine the nets stretching and tearing, the boat being pulled over to its side. How does it sound? Can you feel the rope pulling in your hands? Imagine the panic as they call their companions for help. Can you see the boats so full that the water is nearing the brim?

What is the look on the fishermen’s faces? What is the look on Jesus’ face? How do the fishermen feel? What do they think?

When we set out into the deep together with Jesus, we are bound to bring in a great catch. Our fruitfulness comes from our fidelity to the call of Jesus. Our trust comes from being in his presence. Sometimes this catch is visible and remarkable. Sometimes the fruits of our work are hidden. 

How do I feel as I contemplate this miraculous and astonishing catch of fish? Have I experienced the same fruitfulness? Do I see how my closeness and fidelity to Jesus were the key ingredients of this fruitfulness?

Reflections by Sean van Staden SJ

Loving God,
You call me to the depths. You invite me to go fishing 

with you. May my labour with you bear much fruit.
Amen.

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